Your 2026 Europe travel wishlist:

Every year, I sit down and map out the destinations I think will not just be popular, but worth it. The kind of places that feel completely different when they’re planned with care.

For 2026, my focus is on Europe. These picks are rising in visibility (hello, bucket list feeds and travel editors), but I’ve chosen them because they deliver something more: depth, ease, and real delight when curated well.

Whether you’re after a family milestone trip or a reset-with-a-view moment, this 2026 Europe travel wishlist is designed to inspire your next escape.

1. For the Foodie: Puglia, Italy

Imagine wandering through olive groves and whitewashed villages, then sitting down to orecchiette pasta you watched being hand-rolled that morning. Puglia is the soulful, sunlit region that quietly rivals Tuscany, but with fewer crowds and equally rich flavors.

Why go in 2026: There’s growing buzz around new boutique properties and agriturismo stays. Booking early means access to the best.

Add to your itinerary: Wine tastings in Manduria, cliffside dinners in Polignano a Mare, and a stay in a converted masseria.

2. For the Adventure-Lite Traveler: Iceland

Think: waterfalls, black sand beaches, and spa hotels that feel otherworldly. Iceland is where nature goes big, and you don’t have to rough it to experience it.

Why go in 2026: Increased luxury offerings, especially outside Reykjavik, are making it easier than ever to explore in comfort.

Top experiences: Blue Lagoon retreat, glacier hikes with private guides, and super-jeep tours to hidden hot springs.

3. For the Culture Lover: Paris + Normandy, France

A classic pairing that’s anything but expected when done well. Start with art-filled mornings in Paris, then transition to pastoral countryside and WWII history woven with vineyard views.

Why go in 2026: Paris is hosting major exhibits post-Olympics, and Normandy’s slow travel revival is gaining momentum.

Don’t miss: A curated museum crawl in Paris, a day trip to Monet’s gardens, and a private cider tasting in the Normandy hills.

4. For the Reset-Seeker: Cascais, Portugal

Just outside Lisbon, Cascais offers coastal calm with character. Picture early morning swims, market-fresh seafood, and stylish boutique hotels steps from the Atlantic.

Why it’s ideal for 2026: New wellness retreats and oceanfront stays make this an under-the-radar gem for those looking to recharge.

Perfect pairings: Combine with time in Lisbon or the Alentejo region for a slower, fuller itinerary.

5. For the Family Memory Maker: Croatia

Croatia’s island-laced coastline is perfect for multigenerational travel. You’ll find Roman ruins, national parks, and turquoise coves that keep both kids and adults enchanted.

What’s new in 2026: Several new resort openings in Istria and Dalmatia mean more family-friendly, luxury options with built-in ease.

Family favorites: Private boat day in the Elaphiti Islands, cooking class in Dubrovnik, and scenic drives through Plitvice Lakes.

Ready to plan your 2026 wishlist trip?

Every itinerary I create is custom-built—woven from your travel style, pace, and priorities. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply need a well-earned escape, I’d love to design a trip that feels just right.

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